Large concrete blocks make sturdy retaining walls. Every backyard needs one built from concrete blocks. However, one of the first things to consider is the price. There are many variables that affect the final cost. In this guide, we will go over all the expenses. We will see how much blocks cost. We will talk about labor costs and many other expenditures. We will also list the advantages of retaining walls. We will mention its installation and maintenance. This article will help you plan your budget. Now let us dive into the universe of concrete retaining walls!
Table of Contents
What Are Large Concrete Retaining Wall Blocks?
These are massive units of precast concrete. They are significantly larger than the average garden blocks. Such blocks are engineered for significant load support. In many cases, the blocks are even referred to as ecology blocks. They are also known by names of bin blocks or v-blocks. Given their immense size, the blocks offer exceptional stability. They rely only on their weight since they are so heavy, which allows for containing the soil. These features only make them very suitable for any considerable project.
While they find application in both commercial and residential settings, pass by many highways, or are often used to shape tiered gardens. The blocks interlock and assembly is straightforward without much to no binder. The resulting structure is usually the strong one. The blocks have different shapes and sizes. Other face finishing blocks are also used for enhancing the look. However, in all cases, the optimal functionality is provided. The resulting solution is not only highly practical but long-lasting too. Moreover, it manages sloped terrains effectively and safely.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Blocks
The price of large concrete blocks per block is not uniform. There are several influential factors in the final cost. These parameters are key determinants to help you make a rough estimate of your project. Here is what contributes to the price tag.
Block Size and Weight
The first and most apparent influence is the block’s dimensions. The larger your block, the more concrete is required to manufacture it, and the more expensive the base price will be. The typical dimensions are 2-6 feet long, but they can also weigh in thousands of pounds. Heavy blocks will typically cost more. Additionally, they need heavy machinery to be relocated, which will raise the overall installation costs, so take into account the height of the wall. Choose which size will meet your specifications.
Block Type and Finish
The kind of block will also play a role in cost. The most affordable and functional blocks are plain-faced blocks in standard designs. More costly are decorative blocks, which have colored or textured designs, which imitate a natural stone or other outside design. They represent a significant improvement for appearance. While this imposes an additional charge, it may be essential in visible residential or other walls.
Concrete Mix and Quality
Concrete mix and quality High-strength concrete is more expensive to produce. Structural walls require it. In some cases, blocks are produced from the recycled variant. It sometimes is cheaper. However, the quality is always the question. Check the source and strength first. New, virgin concrete offers quality. It is the guarantee that the block will remain durable and strong. This is essential for a wall that will last long and remain safe.
Manufacturer and location
Prices can vary from one manufacturer to another. This is because various companies have various overheads. Furthermore, the production process is different. However, consideration of manufacturers can help to find differences in cost. Similarly, geography is another major consideration. This is because the cost of transportation is factored into that. Similarly, the blocks are heavy. This makes them very expensive to transport over long distances. Moreover, in highly urbanized areas, the manufacturer is generally more expensive. Therefore, it is highly recommended to find a manufacturer close to source.
Estimating the Per-Block and Per-Square-Foot Cost
Now for some numbers for costs per block or per square foot. These are general average figures. As such, the prices will depend on several factors. You should ask for specific prices for quotes for the project you have in mind.
- The cost per block
A standard large concrete block should be easy to find. A 2×2×4 foot plain block commonly costs between $40 and $70. A larger 2×2×6 foot block would be more, and cost somewhere from $55 to $90 per block. If the block is decorative, these prices will be adjusted upwards. Decorative blocks cost between 20% and 40% more than plain blocks. This is because producing them involves additional steps. These figures are the price of the block itself. They exclude delivery and installation.
- Cost Per Square Foot
Now we are talking. It is easy to conceptualize and will aid you in comparing various wall systems. You will want to know the square foot cost for the blocks. It will range from approximately $25-$45.00. This charge is for the actual cost. The most fundamental and least expensive blocks will cost you at the end. On the other hand, the most intricate and fashionable blocks will be priced at the top end. Start by budgeting your wall face. To get a rough estimate of material pricing, multiply this amount with your wall square footage.
- Installation Costs
Installation consumes most of the budget. It is about as much as the materials. These huge blocks will not be able to install themselves. This is not a DIY project:
- Labor cost
First and foremost, you need a team of installers. They must be a professional crew. The work is usually priced per square foot. The price varies but ranges between 20 and 50 dollars per foot. This price depends on the region. It is also affected by your wall’s complexity. A simple straight wall will come cheaper. A curved or standoff wall will be pricier. Crew experience is another price factor. A top-team will cost more, but they may save you money in the long run.
- Equipment rental
This work requires heavy machines. For instance, site preparation will need an excavator. A forklift or crane will be essential to move the blocks. The cost of this equipment is steep. The installation crew typically covers this cost. It is added to the total bill awarded to the client. However, if you will be supervising the work, allocate for this cost. An excavator costs a lot per day. It is one of the many reasons to hire professionals. They come with their equipment and operators.
- Site Preparation
Finally, before building the site must be prepared. This is no less critical to a stable wall. The area must be appropriately excavated down to a level base, which is topped with compaction gravel. This base serves as a foundation. Appropriate drainage systems must be installed to make sure that there will be no chances of water pressure behind the wall. Site preparation costs may also significantly vary and depend on the condition of your site. A sloped rocky area will be much more expensive to prep.
- The Total Project Cost
To get the real cost, sum everything up. Just add the cost of materials to the installation cost. It will be your real per square foot price. Typically, a large block wall costs money. It is around $45 to $95 per square foot. This is indeed a loose estimation for the whole project. Suppose you have a wall that is 4 feet high. Suppose further that it is 50 feet long. Thus its face area stands at 200 square feet. You will be able to look at the real cost using the average data mentioned above. It may be between $9000 and $19000. This is what you can end up investing. However, always get several detailed quotes. This will give a guarantee that you work at true costs obtained.
Block Retaining Wall Benefits
Lastly, block walls provide several benefits. Ultimately, these advantages make the walls a worthy investment, as the cost is nothing compared to what one can achieve.
- Unmatched Strength
The strength they offer is the first advantage. They are so heavy that they are naturally strong, and they are great at holding the land behind. Services, such s tall, critical wall, are possible due to their strength. Block walls are made with high-strength concrete, making them highly durable. They will resist the weather, rot, and pests. A decent installed wall can last many years. The long-term benefit can mean a lot of value for the money.
- Easily Installed and Fast
Construction can be achieved in what feels like no time with fast workers. Due to their large size, the blocks cover a huge wall area. Fewer blocks are required, which implies fewer blocks to make and build. Walls can be built fast by a seasoned crew. Labor costs and efforts are reduced. The interlocking design allows for easy and quick allocation. The construction is available in a range of choices. The process is easier and quicker. The buildings are built like a jigsaw puzzle. This literally saves days after completing a block.
- Design flexibility and versatility
The application of blocks is broad and versatile. These blocks are suitable for retaining walls of any height. Moreover, blocks can be used for the construction of flood protection objects. It can be a construction element to build material storage bunkers. They can also be arranged in tiers. Different arrangement varieties allow being original in designing landscape and territory in general. Furthermore, that design can be embellished through the use of decorative faces. As a consequence, one layer fulfills two roles: functionality and aesthetics. It is another reason to choose blocks.
- Low Maintenance Requirements
They are Low-Maintenance. After installation, they require minimal care. Concrete construction material withstands the elements, so you do not need to paint, stain, or seal it. The only thing that is required occasionally is good drainage, which is part of the installation process. However, regular checkups are also recommended. This is because these walls are prone to moving or cracking. In general, it has very little maintenance every day, which saves you time and money over the years. It is a set-it-and-forget-it approach to the problem.
In Detail – the Installation Process
Correct installation will secure a wall for a long time. The process consists of several crucial steps. Here is a broad plan of the procedure.
- Planning and Engineering
Before anything else, plan with an engineer. The bigger of a retaining wall, the more planning needed. If more than four feet high, get an engineer. The engineer will design and consult with you. To avoid the wall collapsing, getting an engineer is natural. A professional engineer will plan the wall. He will make sure it is stable and safe. They consider the type of soil and water drainage. For permits, an engineer’s plans set your mind at ease.
- Excavation and base preparation
Now the actual construction process starts. First, the crew digs a trench, where the wall base will be placed. It must be wide and deep enough, able to have a gravel footing poured in. On the bottom, the soil must be compacted tightly. Then a layer of crushed stone is added where the gravel footing will be placed. The gravel base is also thoroughly leveled in layers of equal thickness and compacted. It is a very crucial layer for the wall as a whole.
- Laying the First Course
The first rows of blocks are the most critical. They must be perfectly level from side to side and from first to back. The crew takes extensive time building this course. It will determine the standard of the rest of the wall. Every block set on the gravel base is adjusted until it is just right. A small mistake here will be magnified beyond repair up the wall.
- Stacking Subsequent Courses
The base Course is Set, and Stacking Subsequent Courses. Once the base course is set, stacking can begin. A machinery is used to lift the blocks into position. Many blocks have an interlocking design. This may be a shear key or a channel. This should help to lock them together tightly. Released Every new row is placed slightly back. This is known as the batter and will help make the wall more secure. This process is repeated until the wall has the desired height.
- Drainage and Backfill Installation
The secret of the wall’s lasting life is drainage. The drain is made of a perforated drain pipe; it is located at the base. The pip used is placed at the back of the first course of blocks. The distance is covered with backfilled pipe is surrounded by clean, crushed stone. And backfilling takes place until the wall is done with placement directly at the back of the blocks. This leads to a free-draining zone. The hydrostatic pressure of the wall is alleviated. The remaining area is behind; it fills up with native soil. Finally, the soil is compacted.
- Maintaining Your Concrete Block Wall
Given the materials used, the amount of maintenance these fences necessitate is minimal. Some inspections every now and then may keep them going. Here is what needs to be done
- Inspection of Your Wall regularly
Walk the length of your wall from time to time. Do this several times annually. Do it after a heavy rainfall. Inspect it for any indications of movement. Check if the blocks are shifting, leaning, or popping out. Examine if the concrete has cracks in it. Small ones are not always a problem. However, bigger or expanding cracks require a second look. They need to be examined by an engineer.
- Check the Drainage System
Make sure that the drain system is working properly, and the drain pipe outlet is unobstructed. Clear it from trash, leaves, or dirt if necessary. Water should easily flow out; if it aggregates behind the wall, then you should ensure that the area above does not permit surface water to gather. To avoid saturation of the soil, correct the grading at the top.
- Managing Plant Growth
Be careful whatever you plant near the wall. Make sure you do not plant large trees near the wall. The roots of trees near a wall can generate strong pressure. Thousands of years can cause the wall to crumble. Smaller bushes and ground cover are acceptable. Don’t let the vines rise on the wall outside. The surface will maintain moisture and drip into the concrete. The vines will go inside the junction.
Final Thoughts
Building with large concrete blocks is a great choice. It results in a sturdy, long-lasting structure. However, it costs a fortune. You have to invest $45 to $95 per square foot. This includes materials, equipment, and labor. The price is influenced by your chosen color and finish. Moreover, your location matters as well. The benefits are evident, though. The wall is powerful and hard. The construction is quick and simple. Finally, the wall itself needs low maintenance. It is a great value for its life. Thus, do the walls with experienced workers. Compare the pricing. Plan and develop it well. A good wall will last. It will last for many generations to come.